How to hire Filipino Helpers in Sarawak? Everything you need to know

Sarawak's state policy is to prioritise the hiring of Indonesian workers. For this reason, it is not easy to hire Filipino helpers in Sarawak. However, it is not impossible. Here's everything you need to know about hiring a Filipino helper in Sarawak.

Use a licensed agency

You must hire with a licensed agency in Malaysia and a licensed agency in the Philippines. This is a compulsory requirement by the Philippines authorities and it would be difficult for you to hire a Filipino helper without the involvement of agencies.

Register the helper's contract with the Philippines Embassy in KL

When hiring a Filipino helper, you must sign the standard contract set by the Philippines Overseas Employment Administration's (POEA) with the helper. This contract must be verified by the Philippines Overseas Labour Office (POLO) in Kuala Lumpur. It is also compulsory to pay your Filipino helper the salary set by the POEA. Currently, the monthly salary of a Filipino helper in Malaysia is RM1800 and Filipino helpers are entitled to one rest day a week or the mandated overtime pay.

Overseas Employment Certificate

All Filipino helpers must obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to legally leave the Philippines for employment abroad. This can be obtained by the Philippines agency for the helper.

Calling Visa application

You may apply for a calling visa for your Filipino helper in Sarawak. Kindly note that the process may take up to 90 days for approval. This is much longer than processing a calling visa for an Indonesian helper, which is normally 30 days.

6 year restriction for Filipino helpers in Sarawak

The permits of Filipino helpers cannot be renewed after they turn 45 in Sarawak. Further, there is a limit of 6 years of continuous service for Filipino helpers. In contrast, you may continue renewing permits for Indonesian helpers beyond 45 years old as long as the helper continues to be medically fit, and there is no limit to years of service.

Rest days and overtime pay

Filipino helpers are entitled to the weekly rest day under their POEA employment contract in Malaysia. Unlike Singapore and Hong Kong, you can pay your Filipino helper in lieu of the weekly rest day. Be sure to discuss the rest day arrangement with your Filipino helper before she begins employment with you.

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